Elderlaw Project

To get help from the Elderlaw Project, call 212-382-6658 or fill out this intake form.

Overview

Many of New York’s seniors are affected by health-related issues, including problems with mobility and may have become increasingly isolated over the years as family members and friends pass away or relocate.  These challenges often have a greater impact on older New Yorkers who have been historically denied equal access to economic, social and legal opportunities and who, consequently, may be struggling with poverty and unable to  afford the legal help that they need. The City Bar Justice Center’s Elderlaw Project, with the help of volunteer attorneys, provides seniors with limited economic means in New York City with free legal services for life (estate) planning, including:

• Simple Wills
• Healthcare proxies and Living Wills
• Powers of attorney
• Appointment of Agent to Control Disposition of Remains

These vital documents allow seniors to express their wishes in advance so that they can be carried out at a later date.

In addition, we hold community presentations (currently remotely) by partnering with senior centers throughout the City. These events and educational resources we develop are a source of valuable information in areas of law that are important to older adults. Knowledge is power, so know your rights!

Please note: The Elderlaw Project provides direct assistance only for the issues stated above. For all other matters, please call the Legal Hotline at 212-626-7383.

Need Assistance?

Please fill out our brief preliminary intake form (click here to access) to check eligibility:

Once you submit the form, we will follow-up by phone or email within 3 business days to request additional information, if necessary; confirm eligibility for assistance and provide you with information about next steps; and confirm the logistics required for remote assistance.

Vivienne Duncan directs the Elderlaw Project and Yenissell Sanchez is the project coordinator.

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Not sure if this is the right project? Contact our free Legal Hotline at 212-626-7383.

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Resources

A Beginner’s Guide to Estate Planning: Wills and Advance Directives (English) (Spanish)

A Guide to Funeral and Burial Options in New York (English) (Spanish)

A Simple Guide to Advance Directives and Estate Planning (English) (Spanish)

Essential Documents For Life Planning and Standby Guardianship

Essential Life Planning Documents (English) (Spanish)

Guardianships: What You Need to Know (English) (Spanish)

Power of Attorney or Legal Guardianship: What Is The Difference, and Which One Do I Need? (English) (Spanish)

The 5 Most Common Questions About Article 81 Guardianships, Answered